The AARP Foundation Women's Scholarship Program announced a $1.5 million grant from the Walmart Foundation that will help 450 women aged 40 and up to receive job training and educational opportunities that will help support themselves and their families.

"In this economy more than ever, workers need the right skills and training to increase their earning potential" said Robin Talbert, AARP Foundation president. "Women in particular don't always have the resources in the second half of life to access the education they need. We are so pleased to work with the Walmart Foundation to provide underserved women with opportunities to expand their career options in later life."

The AARP Foundation Women's Scholarship Program provides scholarship funding to women with moderate-to-low-incomes and limited financial resources. Scholarships help women pay for public or private secondary school, including community colleges, technical/vocational schools and four-year universities. Winners can use funds for tuition, fees and books.

Nearly twice as many women as men will face poverty in their retirement years, according to data from AARP. AARP data also reports that women earn 77 cents on the dollar compared to men — which translates to an average of $250,000 less over their work lives to invest in retirement.

"The Walmart Foundation is committed to supporting workers in their efforts to gain access to job opportunities," said Margaret McKenna, president of the Walmart Foundation. "We are pleased to be a part of this project, which gives mature women the opportunity to continue to play a vital role in the workforce while providing for themselves and their families."